Chapter 6 finally! Yayy! :)
I do not own Sailor Moon, I really wish I did but sadly I don't so here is my take on the world of Sailor Moon. Enjoy!
The King's Love by Increbresco
Chapter 6
A few days later…
*The Palace*
Serena sat eating her breakfast in the large kitchen of the palace where the meals for the King, the soldiers and everyone else in the Palace were prepared. She had grown accustomed to eating here instead of at the Commons dining room ever since she became friends with Luna and Artemis.
Serena laughed as she watched Luna whack Artemis on the head with a ladle. Artemis yelled trying to get away. Luna's face was burning red as she shook her fists at him.
Luna and Artemis were the funniest people Serena had ever met. Andrew introduced her to Artemis recently, as he would be training her for the maid's position in a few weeks. Luna was the head of the kitchen and Artemis was in charge of the chambermaids; they had both been loyal servants at the Palace for many years. They were also married and apparently very much in love although they seemed to argue a lot.
They were a very beautiful couple though; Luna was very striking with her long wavy dark hair, cobalt blue eyes and soft curves. She had a gentleness about her like you could tell her anything and she would understand. Artemis was very handsome; he was tall and slim with long silver hair and golden eyes. They were both very different; Luna was strict and always worried about getting things done while Artemis was always playful and flirting with the chambermaids, which usually drove Luna crazy.
"Artemis if I catch you ogling any of those maids again I'll divorce you!" yelled Luna as she went back to stirring the contents of the pot she had just put on the stove.
Artemis smirked wickedly, draping his arms over Luna, "Darling, I only have eyes for you."
"Don't you try to sweet talk me mister, I'm going to be keeping an eye on you!" muttered Luna.
"You see what I have to deal with Serena, the lack of trust, it hurts me!" said Artemis clutching his heart playfully as he staggered down on the seat beside her.
"Don't listen to him Serena. He's in big trouble when we get back to our room" said Luna smiling sweetly at Serena.
Artemis turned to Serena and rolled his eyes "That just means we're going to have lots of make up sex tonight."
Serena blushed choking on her pancakes.
"Artemis don't say that to such a young girl!" yelled Luna blushing.
"Serena's not that young, she's old enough. Besides everyone knows that Serena got it on with the King a couple of weeks ago," replied Artemis nonchalantly.
"What? We didn't sleep together well…we did but we didn't have sex!" exclaimed Serena.
"News travels fast here Serena, you have to realize that your arrival here has riled everyone up" said Luna.
Serena sighed, "What do you mean? I haven't done anything"
"The King let you sleep in his bed! That's a big deal; he never lets anyone go into his room! And he allows you to argue with him on a daily basis! That's very strange," said Artemis as he reached over to pick a strip of bacon off Serena's plate.
Luna whacked him on the hand with her spoon, "Don't be rude Artemis! Don't you have chores to do?"
"Okay I'm going," said Artemis backing away, hands in the air.
When he left, Luna turned to Serena who looked deep in thought. "Don't let it get to you, its just rumors. Everyone is easily excited here."
"I know, I just…this all feels very surreal sometimes, me and Endymion fighting all the time. He just gets under my skin. I came here to study not fight. I don't want people thinking that I slept with the King either, its just so embarrassing," muttered Serena weakly. 'I shouldn't have come here' shethought. Maybe things would have been simpler if she was still at her old school and living at the orphanage.
"Serena, you don't have anything to be embarrassed about. You are a very courageous girl; you stood up for yourself against the King. You didn't let him seduce you and you held your ground," said Luna giving her a warm smile.
"No one looks down at you here either, everyone is happy you're here. They think you're wonderful for putting the King to his place. And even though they think you slept with him, that will blow over soon enough. Things will be getting pretty interesting around here soon" continued Luna.
"What do you mean?" asked Serena confused.
"Princess Beryl is coming to stay for awhile, she's his date for Andrew's wedding," replied Luna.
Serena's eyes widened, "Who is Princess Beryl?"
"Princess Beryl was his girlfriend aka his mistress a long time ago. She's only after his throne. She's the only woman he has ever been serious about though. I heard from Andrew that he's considering marriage with her," said Luna sadly.
"What?" croaked Serena weakly.
"I know. It's hard to believe but he's very lonely and I think that has made him desperate. She's a horrible vain greedy woman Serena and I advise you to steer clear of her while she's here. It wouldn't be good if she heard any of the rumors going around about you and Endymion," said Luna.
Serena sucked in a breath; she wondered how beautiful this Beryl was. 'She must be beautiful for Endymion to want her as his wife' thought Serena sadly. She wasn't sure why she was suddenly depressed, its not like it was any of her business who the jerk dated.
"I'll do my best to avoid her Luna, thanks for giving me the heads up," murmured Serena pushing her plate aside. She had suddenly lost her appetite.
*Elsewhere*
The maids stood at the window sighing dreamily as they gazed at the handsome group of men below. Five men sat huddled together on a bench in the courtyard plotting. Their leader was the head general known as Andrew. The others were General Zoisite considered a genius to most who knew him, he was slim and with long chestnut brown hair that he usually kept in a pony tail. General Kunzite no doubt the most charming of the group was tall and muscular; his eyes were light brown and hair was long and silver. General Jadeite was known as the most troublesome of the group, with his short blonde hair and dark eyes. And lastly General Nephrite, the strongest, with his long fiery red hair and dark brown eyes.
These men, the trusty generals of King Endymion's army had gathered to come up with a plan to dispose of the impending threat known as Beryl. However after an hour at it they had come up with no plan of action.
"Oh crap…I'm going to start looking for another job. I'll actually have to start doing work," muttered Jadeite frantically.
"Don't worry Jadeite, we just need to calculate the right variables that would enable us to get the results we want" said Zoisite as he tried to console Jadeite.
Andrew rolled his eyes at Zoisite, "This shouldn't be that complicated, I mean she's just one woman, one incredibly evil sinister woman."
"I say we kill her and make it look like an accident," said Nephrite, running his hand along the blade of his sword.
"I'm going to ignore that comment Nephrite, how about if Kunzite seduces her and then Endymion walks in and catches them in bed?" said Andrew excitedly.
Kunzite ran his hands through his hair in exasperation, "Hell no! I'm not touching that demon woman and if I did Endymion would murder me!"
"I thought you loved all women Kunz," joked Jadeite.
"Even I have standards," replied Kunzite shuddering at the thought of seducing Beryl.
"Well we're back at square one, come on guys we can't let Endymion get back together with her. She cannot be Queen of Earth, we'll all be doomed" yelled Andrew panicking at the thought of living in a world ruled by Beryl.
"How about Serena?" said Zoisite suddenly.
"Serena? What about her?" said Andrew worry evident on his face at the mention of her name. He hoped this wasn't going where he thought this was. 'I never should have introduced these guys to her'
"Well I think we can all agree she is very beautiful. Since she and Endymion seem to have some strange relationship going and we know he's attracted to her, she should seduce him. That will keep him away from Beryl for sure" said Zoisite coolly.
"Yes! That's perfect! Good job Zoi" said Nephrite slapping Zoisite on the back.
"Absolutely not!" boomed Andrew.
"Why not? She's just the girl for the job. Endymion obviously wants her, who knows she could end up being the Queen of the Earth," said Jadeite glaring at Andrew. 'Serena will have Endymion eating out of the palms of her hands and I won't have to start doing my work' he thought happily.
"Don't be ridiculous! She's only sixteen! We can't ask her to do something like that! She's my sister; I'm not going to use her like that. Besides in case you haven't been paying attention to what I have been saying the past couple of weeks, they hate each other!" yelled Andrew in exasperation.
"Serena seems cool, I think if we should ask her. And she's not your sister Andrew! Also I don't think they hate each other, its just the sexual tension that's got them all grumpy if you ask me" said Kunzite smirking. He had met Serena when he arrived at the Palace, they all had. She was a very down to earth beautiful girl no doubt able to handle herself just fine.
Zoisite looked at Kunzite thoughtfully for a minute "I agree with Kunz, based on my observations there doesn't seem to be much hate between them, just a few underlying frustrations. However I don't think we should ask Serena to seduce Endymion. We don't need to, we can just nudge them in the right direction that's all."
Andrew sighed, "Kunz she's as dear to me as my sister, and ok lets say I agree with this plan, what do you mean by nudging them Zoi?"
Andrew wasn't exactly comfortable with the idea of tricking Serena into seducing Endymion however he had to admit there was more to those two than met the eye.
Jadeite shrugged, "We could lock them in a room together or find ways to make sure they bump into each other more during the day. That way they might you know find themselves unable to resist their attraction to each other. We have to work fast though, Beryl will be here in three days!"
"I guess that's not so bad, I mean if they both end up liking each other on their own then its not like we tricked anyone" replied Andrew. 'I just hope we don't end up regretting this' thought Andrew frowning.
Later that day…
Serena rushed down the marble staircase and pushed past the large metal doors making her way to the Palace entrance. She received word saying she had guests. 'Who could possibly be visiting me here?'
She paused when she reached the large metal gates, her jaw dropping in shock, "Raye! Mina! Lita! Ami! What are you guys doing here?"
"Surprise!" they shouted hugging Serena.
"What's going on?" asked Serena happy to see her friends.
"We came to visit you and we also have some big news!" said Mina excitedly.
Ami glanced at the others before turning to face her, a smile on her face, "Well I was offered a research assistant position with the Head Doctor in the Medical Unit here so I'll be working at the Palace from now on."
"Seriously? That's awesome Ami," murmured Serena in awe. It was no surprise to her that Ami would be given such a good opportunity she was very gifted after all.
"Serena we all got some good offers to work in the Palace and we decided to go with it seeing as how we never get to hang out with you anymore besides summer is coming and we have all the free time in the world" said Mina smiling.
"Yeah, I'll be working with your friend Luna helping her prepare the daily meals in the Palace!" said Lita grinning.
"I got a job as a maid so we'll be working together! We'll get to wear a cute uniform and flirt with all those hot soldiers," squealed Mina happily.
Serena looked puzzled, "But you're family is so well off Mina, you don't need to work"
Mina laughed, "I know but my mom has been threatening to cut me off again since I maxed out her credit card last week, so this way I'll have my own money to go shopping with!"
"You're going to be here too Raye?" asked Serena grinning.
Raye smirked at her, "Just so you know I'm not doing this entirely for your benefit, it's a great opportunity. I'll be assisting the high priests with the daily blessings they perform for the King and the Palace."
"You guys are amazing!" said Serena with tears in her eyes. She knew they had probably done everything in their power to find a way for her to see them more. She was ecstatic; Andrew would be leaving on his honeymoon soon so she would have been stuck in the palace alone all day otherwise.
"Come on Serena, show us around!" said Lita tugging her arm.
"Ok let's go, this is going to be awesome! The five of us back together again!" murmured Serena excitedly.
The Next Day…
*Throne Room*
Peace flourished throughout the Kingdom of Earth for the last couple hundred years. Endymion knew it was great however since there was no wars to fight or battles to wage he became extremely bored.
Endymion currently sat on his throne adorned with his golden crown feeling utterly useless. 'I'm going to go mad if I don't find something to do soon' he thought miserably.
He completed all his paperwork earlier this morning; it only took him two hours actually. Surely the King of Earth has more to do but alas it was not so. With the Council doing most of the work, he merely made important executive decisions. The Council had been in place since the beginning of his father's reign a long time ago. They were made up of a select group of exceptional individuals, the smartest of their kind, powerful men and women that helped run the Kingdom. Turns out they do their jobs so exceptionally well that it gave him little else to do.
He could have went with the generals to the local bar, they were eager to drink and be merry on their little vacation but he had never been much of a drinker.
Endymion sighed. 'I wonder what Andrew is up to…probably wedding stuff.' All everyone talked about was the stupid wedding; he couldn't wait until the whole wedding fiasco was over so things would go back to normal.
Then a horrifying realization struck him, 'Shit! I forgot to buy Andrew a wedding present!'
Endymion wouldn't believe he forgot, it was kind of miraculous actually since Andrew had been bugging him for the last couple of weeks about what he was getting him. It would be too late to have one of his servants order anything special from abroad. The wedding was in two days, where the hell could he get a gift now.
He couldn't ask any of the generals, they would tell Andrew. If Andrew found out he would take it personally and be upset. As much as Endymion didn't like inconveniencing himself Andrew was still his best friend since childhood, someone who had been there for him his whole life. 'Maybe I can bestow some fake title on him' thought Endymion.
Andrew was too smart for that though; he would probably figure it out.
After thinking for a few minutes, he figured he would have to get a gift for Andrew and Reika right here in Crystal Tokyo. He was in no mood to travel far. Asking any of the servants would be out of the question, they would think it strange and go blabbing around to everyone else in the palace. And Hotaru was away visiting friends on Venus for the next two days. 'Damnit!'
A nagging voice inside him pointed out the obvious person to help him with his dilemma, his arch nemesis Serena. The only problem was that they hated each other and with all the fighting they had been doing the last couple of weeks it probably wasn't a good idea. However he had no one else and she seemed to be pretty close to Andrew so she would be able to help him pick out a good gift.
Endymion groaned in misery. 'Well it looks like I have no choice, I better go hunt down the little bunny'
*The Courtyard*
Serena and Mina sat on a wooden bench chatting. Mina had insisted on showing up at the Palace again today so they could check out the good-looking soldiers and have girl talk.
"Serena! You just need to admit that he's a sexy beast and you like him," exclaimed Mina.
"Ok so Endymion is a sexy beast and I like him a lot geez!" yelled Serena in frustration trying to get Mina off her back.
"Really? I had no idea you felt this way Meatball Head" came a deep voice from behind Serena, startling the two blondes.
"Oh My God!" exclaimed Mina when she saw the King. 'He's gorgeous!'
After staring at him for a minute she bowed in respect and introduced herself. Endymion smiled at her, signaling for her to stand.
"My what a lovely friend you have Meatball Head" said Endymion kissing the palm of Mina's hand causing her to blush furiously.
"Get away from her you dirty dog! And don't call me that!" shouted Serena pulling Mina to her side protectively.
"Serena!" yelled Mina in shock. She couldn't believe Serena had just talked to the King like that.
"He's a man whore Mina! He already has two girlfriends! He just wants to add more women to his harem"
"First of all there is only one woman here and a Meatball Head! Secondly I do not have a harem or any girlfriends so get your facts straight," said Endymion wondering where the hell she heard that.
"My name is S-E-R-E-N-A! And I saw you with Hotaru after class my first day at the academy. And I know all about your Princess Bimbo!" yelled Serena. 'How dare that pig deny the truth'
Endymion stared at her in confusion for a moment before bursting into laughter, "You're a loon Meatball Head, Hotaru is my sister you ditz!"
Serena's jaw dropped in shock, "What?"
"Yeah just about everyone in the world knows that but you! You're really something Meatball Head!" said Endymion laughing. He couldn't believe that Serena thought Hotaru was his girlfriend, she was no doubt delusional.
"Huh? But I saw…" Serena paused frowning. 'Oh my God, Hotaru is his sister? I guess that explains why they were hugging' thought Serena.
Then it dawned on her, she had been treating Endymion like a jerk the last couple of weeks because she thought he was some heartless playboy but he hadn't done anything wrong. Regret flooded her. 'Maybe I should apologize to him'
Serena dismissed that thought as Endymion continued laughing, 'No he's still a jerk, he had insulted me too many times for me to forgive him and there's still that Beryl woman.'
"Stop laughing at me moron! Never mind her what about your Princess Bimbo!" yelled Serena her face blazing red.
"Jealousy isn't a good look on you Meatball Head," said Endymion smirking. 'So the little meatball head wants me'
"Ha! I'm not jealous. I feel sorry for any woman that would fall for a scoundrel like you!" replied Serena pouting. She hated the smug look on his face.
"Weren't you the one who was just saying how sexy I am and how much you like me?" replied Endymion arching an amused eyebrow at her.
"I said no such thing! Come on Mina let's go, I don't want to be around this bastard for another minute!" muttered Serena tugging on Mina's arm.
Mina had been standing silently in awe of the banter between the King and Serena. Needless to say she picked up on the sexual tension radiating off the two. 'These two have it bad!' she thought happily.
"Wait!" called Endymion as the two blondes walked off. As annoying as Serena was he still needed her help.
"Meatbal-Serena! Please wait I need to ask you something!" said Endymion grabbing hold of her.
"What do you want?" said Serena trying her best to squirm out of his grip.
"Mina could you excuse us for a minute?" asked Endymion.
Mina winked at Serena, "Sure, I'll see you later Serena"
"Traitor" muttered Serena as Mina walked off leaving her alone with the devil that looked awfully nervous suddenly.
Endymion glanced at her and hesitantly spoke, "I forgot to buy Andrew a wedding present! I need you to go with me into the city and help me pick something out"
Serena burst out laughing, that's what had the Almighty King Endymion nervous.
"Why should I help you?" asked Serena a huge grin plastered on her face.
"I'll do anything you want please," muttered Endymion weakly. He hated begging.
Serena thought long and hard for a few minutes and then a wicked smile slowly spread across her face, "Ok I'll help you but if I do this you can never call me Meatball Head again!"
"Fine" muttered Endymion. 'Well that was easy, although I will miss calling her that, it suits her.'
"That's not all, I want you to take me to Andrew's wedding as your date!" said Serena the words escaping her lips before she had time to think it through.
Endymion gasped, "What?"
"You heard me! That way you will have a miserable time and your girlfriend will hate you. It's the least I can ask for since you have been driving me insane the last couple of weeks" replied Serena confidently. 'Yeah that's why I want to be his date' she thought trying to reassure herself.
Endymion stared at her a minute trying to make sense of her request. He was beyond confused. Maybe Serena really did like him. He took a moment to cast his eyes over her body realizing that he would definitely be able to have a taste of her if he agreed to take her as his date. After all as annoying as she was, her beauty was still evident to him.
"Okay Meatball Head, I'll take you as my date" said Endymion finally. 'Beryl is going to be furious when I cancel on her'
"Good " exclaimed Serena a triumphant smile on her face.
Endymion rolled his eyes at her "Ok let's go Serena, I don't have all day."
He took her hands in his and teleported into the city.
A few hours later…
*Moonlight Mile *
Serena was in awe at everything around her. She had never been shopping in this district of Crystal Tokyo before. It was no doubt where the most elite individuals in the city came to shop. Endymion made the decision to go with jewelry as a wedding present for Andrew and Reika. He explained to her that there was no greater honor for a family than to pass on heirloom pieces. Therefore if he gave them jewels they could pass it on to their children one day and vice versa, it would be perfect. It was actually a pretty good idea.
Serena felt a little sad when she thought about her own parents. She had nothing to remember them by or pass on except for the memories in her heart and she feared they too would fade one day. That thought depressed her immensely.
They were now in one of the most largest and expensive jewelry stores in Crystal Tokyo. Serena's eyes seemed to be pulled in every direction, there was beautiful diamonds, rubies, emeralds and even stones she wasn't aware existed. Everything was gorgeous and adorned with the finest gold and silver.
"Stop gaping Meatball Head and help me pick out the best pieces," said Endymion rolling his eyes at her.
"Hey! You're not supposed to be calling me that!" replied Serena pouting.
"Old habits die hard…" muttered Endymion, eyes roaming the jewelry cases.
"It's just that I've never seen such beautiful jewelry in my life!" exclaimed Serena unable to contain her excitement. She pictured herself dressed in the dazzling ruby earrings in front of her wondering if it would make her look elegant.
"Hmmn…" murmured Endymion in agreement. 'That's right, I forgot she used to be an orphan, she'll get used to having money soon enough' he thought. After all she was Andrew's sister now and his family were not impoverished.
"Why are we here again?" asked Serena drooling over a beautiful set of moonstone jewels. It was a moonstone pendant in the shape of a crescent moon hanging from a simple gold chain. And it was paired with sparkling diamond and moonstone earrings. Serena felt herself almost tear up, it was just so magnificent. It was also beyond anything she could afford in her lifetime, the thought made her frown.
"We are here because we have been searching for a present for the last three hours and there seems to be nothing else in this useless city except jewelry that's worth giving" groaned Endymion while running his hands through his hair as he came up behind her to see what was fascinating her so much.
'It's certainly a stunning piece' he thought when he saw the moonstone set that had captured her attention. He could imagine laying the necklace on her gorgeous little neck, the pendant hanging just above her breasts.
Snapping himself out of his little fantasy he grasped Serena's hand and dragged her over to the manager, "Come on, we need to focus on what we came for."
"Welcome! My what a beautiful couple! How can I help you today?" asked the Manager making Serena blush.
"We are planning on spending a lot of money here today. We'll need more than one pieces and some items customized," said Endymion gesturing for the manager to follow him.
Serena was in awe of Endymion. 'He has a very domineering presence' she thought, feeling slightly turned on by it. She bit down on her lip as he kept his grip on her keeping her close to his side. He looked to her several times for reassurances about various pieces and she felt herself melting under his intense gaze.
Finally after an eternity and an unspeakable amount of money spent they left the store. The order would be rushed and delivered to the Palace on the day of the wedding.
*A few blocks away*
Nephrite, Kunzite, Jadeite, Zoisite and Andrew stumbled out of the Barking Spider smiling profusely. They were practically inebriated as they searched for a good place to eat.
"Damn I'm starving, feed me!" yelled Jadeite shaking his fists in the air.
"Calm down Jadeite! You're such a whiner," said Kunzite rolling his eyes. He wasn't sure why he was there in the first place; no one had wanted to pick up any women so they had spent the whole morning drinking.
Zoisite groaned feeling a headache forming, "I can't believe you guys dragged me out drinking so early! We're drunk and it's not even one o'clock in the afternoon!"
Andrew just laughed. He was having the time of his life. Usually he wasn't one for drinking especially so early in the day but he would be a married man soon therefore he was going to enjoy every moment of being a carefree guy like the rest of his friends for as long as he could.
"You guys are out because it's…WHOA!" burst you Andrew as he froze in the middle of the sidewalk.
"What the hell Andy!" yelled Nephrite as he bumped into Andrew.
Andrew stood with his mouth agape a single finger pointing across the street to the glass window of a restaurant. Sitting in said restaurant was none other than Serena and Endymion, both seemed preoccupied with each other, laughing and eating.
They guys all froze mouths hanging open when they saw Endymion feeding Serena what seemed to be a piece of chocolate cake.
Finally Zoisite muttered, "Umm how did this happen?"
"I have no clue… Endy hardly goes out of the palace anymore so this is major plus they seem so cozy!" said Andrew wondering what the hell was going on.
"He gets his charm from me! I taught him everything I know," said Kunzite his chest swelling with pride at the sight of Endymion and Serena.
Jadeite on the other hand was drooling, "That cake sure looks good!"
"Hey! Watch it! You're drooling on my boots idiot!" shouted Nephrite as he smacked Jadeite on the back of the head trying to snap him out of it.
The five men continued to spy on the unsuspecting couple in the restaurant, their stomachs empty but their hearts filled with joy. Their King was on his first date in a long time.
*Restaurant *
Serena blushed when Endymion reached over and fed her some of his chocolate cake. Endymion had demanded they have lunch; it was apparently her reward for helping him shop. She didn't mind, if it was one thing she was known for was a big appetite.
"Do you like it?" asked Endymion grinning at her. He was enjoying himself immensely. Things couldn't be going better. He was being his usual charming self and he could tell Serena was enraptured by him.
He had to admit he was really enjoying her company also. They had talked for a long time, she told him stories about her time at the orphanage and he had retorted with his own childhood adventures. Endymion was starting to realize that he genuinely liked Serena despite their previous bickering. She was beautiful and funny.
"Yes it's very sweet… Do you want to try some of my ice cream sundae?" said Serena blushing.
"Yes I'll have some," replied Endymion smirking.
Serena flushed when she noticed he was waiting expectantly. 'He wants me to feed him!' Her heart was racing as she dug into her sundae and leaned over the table offering a spoonful to him.
Endymion smiled wickedly opening his mouth and letting the ice cream melt against his tongue. He grabbed her hand just as she was about to pull away and took another lick of her spoon making Serena blush even more than she already was.
"Am I embarrassing you Serenity?" Endymion asked silkily as he took a bite of his chocolate cake.
"A little…" murmured Serena avoiding his eyes. 'Of course I'm embarrassed! I'm sitting here with the hottest guy ever and we're feeding each other dessert!' she thought.
Endymion smiled at her shyness. She was just so innocent that he couldn't help teasing her all the time. Their little shopping trip had turned into a date and he was not complaining. He found himself hanging on to her every word and looking forward to her warm smile that seemed to brighten up everything around it. After mulling things over in his head he knew that he wanted her to come back to class. It would be a step in the right direction and he hoped it would lead to the two of them becoming intimate.
"I want you to come back to class," Endymion said finally, nervously awaiting her response.
"Why should I?" asked Serena frowning. She didn't know if it was a good idea because although they were getting along right now it might not last.
"You're a lot smarter than you realize Serena. This program is only for a year, and in all seriousness you should take advantage of what I can teach you. And I think we need to put our previous fighting behind us and move on."
Serena sighed staring at Endymion. She didn't know if she should trust him. He was so confusing. Half the time they were fighting and the other half he's flirting shamelessly with her. Serena was sure he wanted to have some sort of relationship with her most likely sexual. She didn't have any experience with men and that made her extra cautious. A broken heart was what she wanted to avoid desperately. And she feared that's what any kind of relationship with Endymion would result in. However she wasn't immune to his charms, he was so handsome and sweet when he wanted to be.
"I'll come back if we agree to be friends," murmured Serena softly. She hesitantly reached her hands over the table intending to shake his hands as if to signify a truce.
Endymion chuckled taking her hand in his and shaking it firmly, "Ok Meatball Head, we'll be friends forever!"
*Across the Street*
"They're shaking hands?" said Kunzite frowning.
"Yeah shouldn't they be making out or something" muttered Nephrite.
Jadeite groaned "Can't we go eat?! I'm starving!"
"OMG is that Serena!" yelled a female voice nearby causing the five men to whirl around.
Four very attractive young women stood gaping at Serena and Endymion. Each woman striking in her own way.
The chipper blonde exclaimed happily, "Look that's the King she's with! I told you guys he's such a fox!"
Andrew's brows furrowed as he inspected the women. They seemed oblivious to the generals' presence, obviously enthralled by the couple in the restaurant. After a moment realization struck him, 'These must be Serena's friends!' He recalled seeing a picture of them in Serena's room.
Andrew walked over briskly to them intent on introducing himself, "Ladies, I beg your pardon, I do believe we are all gawking at the same couple. I'm Andrew, I don't know if Serena has mentioned me before?"
They smiled brightly nodding their heads.
The tall dark haired beauty strode forward nodding her head, "Yes Serena talks about you all the time, you're practically her new best friend! I'm Raye, and the blonde beside me is Mina, and that's Ami and Lita."
"Nice to meet you ladies. I feel the same way; Serena has become one of my closest friends too. Oh how rude of me. Allow me to introduce you to my comrades, these are Generals Nephrite, Kunzite, Zoisite and Jadeite" replied Andrew gesturing to the men beside him.
"It's a pleasure, Mina," whispered Kunzite kissing her hand. He couldn't believe his luck had changed; finally there were some women. And this Mina was a goddess.
Mina giggled blushing slightly, "You can say that again."
"It certainly is an honor to meet some of Serena's lovely friends," said Nephrite as he took Lita's hand in his. Nephrite was in awe of the beautiful Amazonian woman in front of him, she radiated strength and confidence. And he liked that a lot.
Lita laughed shaking his hand as firmly as she could. She gasped surprised when he met her equal force, he was quite strong. Usually other guys would groan in pain and pull their hand away but not this man he just squeezed harder.
"Is that Sterlington's Advanced Guide to Chemistry?" asked Zoisite excitedly, pointing to the book in Ami's hand. He had never met a woman especially one as lovely as Ami who was interested in such advanced subjects.
"Yes, its one of my favorites," replied Ami blushing. This man was very handsome and she was surprised that he was familiar with her book not most people she met were.
Jadeite stood smirking at the lovely Raye, she was quite a sight. Her hair long and dark, her expression radiated passion and rebellion. He instantly forgot his roaring stomach as he grasped her hand caressing it softly before planting a light kiss on it.
Raye arched an eyebrow at the man before her amazed at his forwardness. She pulled back her hand as if it had been burnt when he kissed it. Flicking her hair she threw him a glare and proceeded to ignore him.
Andrew laughed awkwardly, it seemed everyone had forgotten about him. He glanced back at the restaurant window and frowned. Serena and Endymion were nowhere in sight. A thought struck him suddenly; maybe Serena's friends could help them with their little plan to get Serena and Endymion together.
He cleared his throat loudly, "Would you ladies mind accompanying us for lunch? We have a lot to talk about."
Later that Day…
*The Rose Gardens*
Endymion strolled in the rose gardens taking in the scents around him. Zoisite was supposed to be meeting him here to go over his plans for the new scientific institute they were building in Crystal Tokyo. He had been suspicious about why they were to meet in the gardens but Zoisite was worried about Andrew being upset if he found out they were working since Andrew had demanded all the Generals relax and enjoy their vacation for the next two weeks.
The generals had returned from their little drinking escapade as giddy as schoolgirls, apparently they met some women who captured their attentions. When he asked about them, the guys became very suspicious and avoided the subject. He didn't press them for information though, he was glad they didn't see him with Serena or else they would no doubt try to meddle in his personal business.
After he and Serena returned to the Palace, they parted ways. She went off to the library claiming there were some books she wanted to read. Endymion in turn made up the excuse of having work to do. It wasn't true of course, he didn't have anything to do but he knew she felt a little awkward after their lunch "date".
'Where the hell is Zoi?' he thought. The rose garden was lush and beautiful, with hundreds of blooming roses and large trees. This was his favorite place in the palace. His mother had built it for him on his sixth birthday, she wanted him to remember than no matter how important he was or how busy he became he should always stop and smell the roses. Endymion smiled as he thought of his mother, he missed her dearly, it would be a year before she would awaken along with his father.
Endymion sighed. He could have really used his mother's advice right now. He was conflicted about whether or not he should court Beryl. After spending those couple of days with her in Acerbus and inviting her to the wedding, he thought he was doing the right thing. She was a good woman, beautiful, and with the right nobility. He could tolerate her and she was good in bed. That should be enough for him but deep down he knew it wouldn't be. He wanted more, he just wasn't sure what the more was.
Things between him and Serena showed promise. He was taking her to Andrew's wedding. Endymion had no clue about how he would cancel on Beryl. She would be furious and that could jeopardize things with her permanently. He didn't want to do that but this might be his best chance with Serena. Endymion groaned. He was deeply conflicted.
A flash of gold caught his eyes, turning his head he saw Serena lying on the grass, below one of the large oak trees a few feet away from him.
Endymion approached her immediately he couldn't resist her company.
He stood in front of her, gazing down his eyes darkened. She was wearing a simple white cotton sundress adorned with a pink lace trim. Her feet were bare, little pink sandals strewn against the foot of the tree. Endymion let his eyes rake over her delicious little body. He found himself mesmerized by the way her chest moved with each breath she took in. Her eyes were closed, glossy pink lips parted and hair undone from their usual odangos. She looked serene.
Serena smiled to herself enjoying her little nap in the garden. She was reading in the library when she had been rather forcibly brought to the garden by Jadeite who demanded she take a walk with him. However after a mere five minutes of walking he suddenly remembered that he was needed elsewhere. Serena decided to stay behind and get some fresh air. The sun was shining, the birds chirping and flowers in full bloom. It was a beautiful day.
Groaning she realized that she hadn't put any sunscreen on. 'Oh I hope I don't burn'
"You're going to get burned you know" muttered a deep voice startling her. Jerking her eyes open she saw Endymion standing over her, smirking.
"Well that's none of your business," snapped Serena sitting up. She crossed her legs and tried to get the knots out of her hair.
Endymion sat down beside her; long legs stretched out in front of him, "Isn't it my business Serenity? I wouldn't want anything happening to that delectable skin of yours now would I?"
Serena blushed, "What do you want anyway? Didn't you get enough of my company this morning?"
"I can never have enough of you, you're always on my mind Serenity" replied Endymion stroking her back.
Serena stiffened, "D-don't touch me like that!"
"I'll be touching you all the time at the wedding tomorrow. So why shouldn't I touch you now?" asked Endymion, his hands running along her shoulder.
Serena turned to face Endymion, giving up on her tangled hair. He looked so good. He was wearing his usual black slacks and white shirt, which was unbuttoned half way down today giving her a good view of his chest. His eyes gazed at her hungrily as his hands touched her.
Serena tried to stand up when she felt his strong arms around her waist. He pulled her back down and lay her flat on her back. Serena flushed when his body covered hers.
"What are you doing?!" she yelled embarrassed. Endymion was on top of her, his knee wedged between her legs, his arms pinning hers on either side.
"You didn't answer my question Sere, why shouldn't I touch you?" replied Endymion his nose pressed against hers, lips only a few inches away from hers.
Before she could respond Endymion's mouth crushed hers with a dominating force filled with lust and need. She felt his hand move to her waist, digging into her skin. His other hand grabbed a hold of her long golden mane, titling her head and giving him full access to her mouth. His tongue parted her lips exploring the silky warmth within as he ravaged her mercilessly.
Her hands crept up to his chest and she clung to him returning his kiss with a passion she didn't know existed. Her body was on fire, desire flooded her senses making her tremble with need.
Loosening his grip on her Endymion pulled on the straps of her dress until her bare neck and the top of her breasts were exposed. He removed his lips from hers, nibbling his way down her neck as he made his way to her ample breasts.
Serena moaned loudly biting down on her lower lip when she felt Endymion kissing the top of her breasts. She wanted desperately to pull her dress down further and have his mouth ravish her bare breasts. Her shaky hands gripped Endymion's dark locks, holding his head in place as he continued his assault.
Endymion pulled back, his eyes taking her in, she was panting hard, her mouth swollen from his kisses, cheeks flushed with passion and red marks lined the base of her throat.
Endymion kissed his way back up her neck, planting soft kisses on her throat. He took her in his arms and moved so they lay facing each other side by side. He bent down and captured her lips again. He let his hands roam her body cupping her ass and grinding his erection into her.
Serena's arched her body into his. She could hardly breathe but she didn't care. She wanted this so much. Her mouth feverishly met his, enjoying the feel of his hardness pressing into her hips.
She couldn't even remember how they had ended up in this position but she knew she wanted Endymion. She needed him. He made her feel so alive and wild when he touched her. She cried out desperately when he started thrusting his hips against her.
"I need you so badly Sere," he whispered, and started tugging the ends of her dress up.
"Oh My God!" exclaimed a female voice startling Serena and Endymion out of their bliss.
Serena pulled away from Endymion gasping when she saw a very embarrassed Hotaru staring down at them. Serena sat up quickly turning her head away in shame, as she pulled the straps of her dress back up.
Endymion pulled himself to his feet, running a hand through his hair, "What the hell do you want Hotaru?"
"I just umm…the council …was umm… was looking for you…" stuttered Hotaru staring at her brother and Serena in shock. 'I thought they hated each other'
Serena stood up quickly, fumbling to put her sandals on. She cast a brief look at Endymion and ran out of the gardens.
Endymion's darkened gaze followed her as she disappeared past the gate. He turned to Hotaru ignoring her shocked expression.
"What?! Aren't you supposed to be in Venus?" he growled frustrated at her staring.
"I came back early. Umm…aren't you courting Beryl?" whispered Hotaru looking away as her brother adjusted his pants.
"Nothing has been decided. Anyway this is none of your business. You're just a kid, you wouldn't understand," replied Endymion haughtingly.
He leaned against the tree frowning. 'Damn Serena!' She always got him worked up. For some reason whenever he was around her his control would just crumble leaving him at her mercy.
"Endy I'm older than Serena! And I'm pretty sure much more mature or at least more experienced" said Hotaru blushing.
Endymion arched an eyebrow at her, his little sister wasn't as innocent as she seemed.
"You like Serena don't you? It's kind of obvious. I saw the way you used to stare at her in class when you thought no one was looking. You haven't been the same in class since she stopped coming, you're always sulking and staring at her empty chair wistfully," said Hotaru smiling at her brother. 'He's in such denial'
Endymion grumbled, "I don't know what you're talking about. Can't everyone just leave me alone and stop gossiping about Serena and I. Stop trying to "figure" us out! There's nothing deeper going on, I am a man I want to bed her and that's it!"
"I don't believe you. I think you like her a lot so much so much so that it scares the hell out of you. Isn't that the real reason you went to Acerbus to see Beryl, you were trying to take your mind off Serena!" yelled Hotaru, frustrated at her brother's denial.
"Beryl is good for me, she'll give me what I need! I don't want Serena. I'm just going to use her for sex that's it nothing more" boomed Endymion angrily.
He froze suddenly when he saw Serena staring at him in shock from behind the gate.
Serena had decided to come back to the garden so she could talk to Endymion about what just transpired between them. And she had heard every word of Endymion's declaration. 'He's a monster!' she thought, her eyes welling up with tears.
"Shit!" cursed Endymion as he saw Serena flee.
"What?" asked Hotaru spinning around, just in time to catch the back of Serena's head disappear beyond the gate and around the corner.
Hotaru groaned. 'Why did Serena have to hear that!' This was definitely going to ruin things between Serena and Endymion for sure.
Endymion slammed his fist against the tree in frustration startling Hotaru. Giving her a wary expression he brushed past her heading in the direction that Serena went.
More to come soon.